MM: Downton Abbey Season 4, Episode 2

Good Monday morning, my friends ... 

Well ...

I'm still trying to digest last night's episode ... still in shock about those final scenes ... did not see that coming. (Though I could tell Mr. Green was not the most savory of characters from the get-go.) I had a rough night with Little Bear so I'm getting a very sloooow start this morning ... my thoughts are below, but they're a bit scattered!

Plot points to discuss ...

<<CONTAINS SPOILERS>>

~ Mary and her budding "friendship" with Lord Gillingham, who seems like a genuinely nice guy with some solid estate-related advice. Though he's engaged, he seems pretty interested in Mary ...

~ Gregson trying to win Edith's family's approval - mostly being ignored, but then saving the day by winning back a whole bunch of lost (i.e. gambled away) money. He was able to out-cheat the cheater though, eh ... ?

(Why wasn't it found odd that he was there as Edith's beau - and he's not only much older, AND her boss, but also still married?)

~ Poor Tom feeling out of place, and missing his Sybil ... and then that nasty Braithwaite getting him liquored up, preying on his fears, and then sneaking into his room ... UGH. I'm just really not happy with that. AT ALL.

~ Poor Isobel finding it hard to adjust to life without Matthew ... watching Mary move on (potentially).

~ Robert just generally continuing to be his pompous self. Loved Cora's line about being the only one living in the 20th century - leave it to the American, lol!

~ And then there was Anna's horrific attack ...

I just feel sick by what happened to her. It was briefly shown, but brutal. But what can Anna do? This situation really underscores the vulnerability of lower class women at that time. Who can she tell and what will this mean for her marriage? Poor Mr. Bates - I'm so afraid to watch this fallout. She'll obviously be in distress, physical and emotional after this. And what if she gets pregnant?

***

Ok, well there are my brief and rambly thoughts on last night's episode. If you'd like, and if you have the time, please leave your own thoughts below ... and I'll catch up when I can later on.

Have a good Monday, my friends ...

Masterpiece Monday: Downton Abbey Season 4 Premiere!

Well, it's finally here, my friends! We made it! Downton is back!

So what did you think?

***

Well, I thought it was wonderful, though I must confess, I fell asleep during the last 20 minutes so I'm a bit short on all the facts. I thought it was only a one-hour show last night, so it was a bit of a struggle to stay up for two! I'll need to catch those last 20 minutes online sometime today, but here are some of my thoughts on last night's show. Warning: They're fairly jumbled (as it's just 5 a.m. and I've only had 1/2 a cup of coffee) and perhaps a bit random - so please excuse any typos and rambly run-on sentences!

The new opening to the show caught me off guard - I wanted familiarity! But I think the darkness fit the mood of the new season - things are different now, everyone is in mourning. And I thought it a clever way to deal with O'Brien's leaving ... I thought it interesting how quickly the news spread among the staff and the family. 

(Jumping ahead here, but I think Cora's new maid - Edna, I think? - is the new O'Brien in more ways than position. She cozied right up to Thomas like two snakes in a den. Trouble with a capital T and I sincerely hope she stays away from Tom. But I don't trust her for a moment.)

Was it me or did some of the characters appear quite aged? Cora, Isobel and Mrs. Hughes especially.

Mary - it was so hard in the beginning to watch her scenes. Of course I felt sympathy for her because of her tremendous loss, but the way she neglected George was eating at me! (I almost woke Little Bear just so I could hold him and love him all up!) Also, she was so cold and much like the Mary of old I was afraid this was the direction she was heading, so it was wonderful to see her "wake up" by the end of the episode. I missed those last scenes, but I'm hoping there was one of her bonding with George.

(All that said, I know ladies didn't interact with their babies as we do nowadays, but still. My heart was aching for poor "orphan" George!)

And how neat that they went with the name George when this is the name of the new Royal Prince! (And a fond family name for me as well.)

I loved observing all the scenery - the town, the countryside, the house. The beginning of the show set in stark winter was perfect. Dour and dark. When the cart of spring flowers arrived I knew we'd turned a corner. (Also when Mary came to that luncheon wearing a purple dress - no more mourning.)

Robert seems pretty much the same, but I was curious about his intentions with keeping Mary out of "the circle of life." I know he wanted to protect her in her grief, but was he also serving himself selfishly? He seemed fairly amenable to the change once Matthew's letter was exposed - but that jab at Mary pointing out her ignorance on farm matters was cruel. Robert has never been my favorite character ever since that near-affair debacle. I'm curious to see where things go with him this season, as Mary and Branson team up and carry on with Matthew's vision.

Cora can be so gullible - heeding O'Brien's or Thomas's insinuations - but I'm glad she caught the nanny and threw her out. Wasn't that scene in the nursery awful? Gah, it made my stomach turn the way she hissed at Sybil's little girl. I guess we owe Thomas for the reveal, but I think that was just coincidence. I think he didn't like how she held herself apart/above from the rest of the staff. (Though he could be accused of the same ...)

Not a fan of Jimmy's though I do think he's perhaps starting to feel something for Ivy. Alfred though, ugh. He's aware of Daisy's feelings and just rubs it in. He needs to move on - Ivy's just not that into him! Same goes for Daisy. I wish someone new would show up and whisk her off her feet. She deserves some happiness!

Edith - I've never really warmed up to Edith but I'm really not pleased with her this season. I'm all for her gaining confidence and finding love, but for goodness sakes - this affair with a married man leaves such a bad taste in my mouth. And he just seems like such a letch! Or maybe I'm reading this whole storyline wrong - are we supposed to be cheering them along? I want to like her, honestly, but she keeps making all these poor choices ...

Branson - love him, still. He's such a sweet man and so good to this family. I look forward to watching his storyline unfold.

The Mr. Griggs storyline was a bit confusing - maybe I just need those final 20 minutes to clear it all up. What his history with Carson was all about. I was glad to see Isobel take such comfort in being herself again - reaching out to help where she could.

Alongside the "waking up" theme, there also seemed to be a thread of kindness and helping others in this episode. When Anna offered money to poor Mr. Moseley - I just loved her character all the more. And Mr. Bates showing up to get that signature - such a sweet, funny scene. 

Lady Violet remains true to form - witty and grand and such a protector, so generous in her own way. Loved the scene with Mary. Love all her lines. Love how she tried to help the bumblng Mr. Moseley!

Rose is a bit of a wild card, isn't she? I thought at first perhaps she'd been tamed but after the "night out" at the dance, perhaps not. Can't wait to see what kind of mischief she gets up to ... though I felt badly for that young man who came to see her. I think it was perhaps a little mean not to be honest, to dress up as a maid to carry on the charade. But maybe that was just my tiredness talking last night - I think that was meant to be sweet.

Final thought (for now) - did Mrs. Patmore break that mixer on purpose? ;) 

***

Ok, my friends, that is the best I can do for right now ... but I am so looking forward to reading your thoughts! Please share your opinion on last night's show if you have a chance in the comments below ... and I will jump into the conversation as I can throughout the day.

All in all, I think the season's off to a great start! And boy does it feel good to have Downton actively part of our world once again!

Have a great day, everyone ... see you here again very soon!

In Today's News:

A Blizzard, A Baby & Bathwater

Though not in that particular order ...

Local Weather

Today's top story: A BLIZZARD hits New England!

The above photo was taken last night, about 7 p.m. We had 14 inches at this point ...

But by daylight we had nearly double that!

(Today was to have been Earlybird's EEG at Children's Hospital in Boston ... needless to say, it's been rescheduled for a later date. His MRI is next week.)

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Calendar & Quiz Pages

January brings the snow ... and calendars! Of all kinds. Here are my two page-a-day calendars, sitting side-by-side upon my desk (my purse calendar lies flat just below) ...

 I have always used the Mary Engelbreit calendar (going back how many years I can't count) but this year I could hardly resist (at 50% off!) a Downton Abbey version as well. Who wouldn't love a little Downton to start their day?

Today's quote:

"Downton is a great house, Mr. Bates, and the Crawleys are a great family. We live by certain standards and those standards can at first seem daunting."

Do you remember who said that?

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Recipe Box

While poring over my January journals, I found a neat bath recipe I'd saved ...

This is from a magazine called Herb Quarterly (issue: Spring 2009). I was hoping to get this made up in time for my birthday (carnation is my birth flower), but as it needs three weeks to steep I'll be a bit off. That's ok, though - I think it will make for a lovely foot bath on a cold winter evening.

(Very easy to mix up: 1 cup fresh carnation petals, 6 clove buds, 4 cups lukewarm white vinegar - combine and let steep for 3 weeks. Strain and pour into a clean container. Pour 1 cup of scented vinegar into a full bath and stir well.)

Here's a link to another sweet scented bath I saw online at Elizabeth's yesterday ... I'll need to pick up some new essential oil(s) and some fresh epsom salt in order to make this one up. Out comes the marketing list ... 

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Society Pages

And in other news, Mr. Little Bear tried a sippy cup for the first time yesterday! He was mostly amused by the cup itself - the water inside, not so much ...

(Sorry, the staff photographer got a bit carried away!)

Well, my friends, I'd better "go to press" as my deadline is looming large ... in other words, the little guy is about to wake up from his nap! I hope you have a wonderful weekend, enjoying your family and friends, and perhaps, depending upon your locale, the weather as well.

{Drop me a note below if you have a chance: have you ever had 23.8 inches of snow?}

:)

Blessings on your day ... see you here again very soon! 

Masterpiece Monday: Downton Abbey Season 3, Episode 7 (Finale)

Good Monday Morning my friends ...

I did in fact stay up last night to watch Downton Abbey's third season finale ... and I do have lots to say ... but I will register my thoughts in the comments below, rather than here, because I really don't want to spoil anything for anyone who has not yet caught up. So for right now - moments after waking, and before I've had coffee - I'll just say this:

OH MY WORD.

That was a doozy of a finale and there's MUCH to discuss!

So please feel free to share your thoughts below and I'll join you just as soon as I've had my coffee, woken up a bit and gathered my own thoughts ...

*❤*

NOTE - SPOILERS AHEAD!

My friends, for some reason I cannot get my LONG comment to post in the comment box (the one with all my thoughts on the show) so I will be posting it here, directly below. I hope anyone who has not seen last night's show knows not to read on!

(And sorry for the odd formatting - Typepad's really messing with me today!)

***

Ok, so here's what I knew before last night's episode, because, try as I might, it was impossible to avoid ALL spoilers before the new season aired …

I knew Dan Stevens was not renewing his contract …

I figured they would kill off his character because a split did not seem probable - or even believable - and there's no way they would replace him with another actor.

I then stumbled upon some article somewhere that referenced Matthew's "death."

So I knew a bit of what we were in for last night and that made it a smidgen easier to deal with. "Steeling" myself for the tragedy. Of course, they totally amped up Matthew's sweetness and likability in this episode. Made it even harder to think he's gone.

I was glad he got to see his son and died (most likely, instantaneously) knowing such happiness.

I was also relieved they cut the scene (and the season) at that point - I really didn't want to experience the family grief and fallout. Too tragic and so soon after Sybil's death. I'm hoping next season has a bit of a time jump so we don't have to live through all that.

(I could have done without the close up of Matthew's bloody face, however. That was not an image we needed to take with us.)

I am feeling, perhaps unreasonably, quite upset with Dan Stevens for leaving the show, I must admit!! I avoided all the stories about his departure when they broke last fall but I got the feeling people felt he was getting a bit too big for his britches. Which is probably unfair to say, but it still feels like a slap that he'd up and leave because Downton was "monopolizing" his career.

I wonder how/if Mary will change/cope with this development? She was really sliding into the "Mary of Old" in this last episode, with her snobbishness and meanness returning. Chalk it up to pregnancy hormones perhaps? But there was foreshadowing with her admitting she hoped to always be "Matthew's Mary" in the future which makes me think she'll either be her old self once he's gone OR she'll honor his memory by trying to be the woman he loved so deeply.

So glad the baby was born safely, and how nice for them all it was a boy! (Does this mean even if someday that mysterious cousin Patrick returned - and was validated - Downton would still be safe because Mary's son would come before Patrick in the lineage?)

I shudder to think how Isobel will react to Matthew's death. I almost wanted her to entertain Dr. Clarkson's attempted proposal because A. I think they'd be nice for each other and B. she can use the support now that her son is gone.

Other storylines ...

I felt so badly for Branson ... and I was so annoyed with that maid!

I said to Bill, not that I'd begrudge Tom finding someone to share his life someday as I'm sure Sybil would have wished, but that maid was so pushy and annoying! I was glad he didn't return the attention (though I agree with Mrs. Hughes he did nothing to discourage it) and it broke my heart when he broke down and admitted how deeply he misses his wife. I think he's been in limbo not really knowing who he is in life without Sybil. I am looking forward to seeing where his character goes next season. (You don't think he and Mary might eventually gravitate towards each other?)

Glad Mrs. Patmore's feelings were not hurt by that piggish shopkeeper. I remember that actor from a pbs miniseries that aired last year (can't think of the name right now) but he played a similar - and even slimier - character in that and it really turned my stomach watching him "flirt" with all those women. Ugh.

Mrs. Hughes is still just so wonderful. She's really become the voice of reason in this series. And I love how she "mothers" her flock. Love how she handles Carson, especially.

Happy that the tension between Thomas and James has been resolved. I still think their "friendship" will be difficult since Thomas is obviously still crushing on Jimmy. I find it very interesting how they are slowly (perhaps) redeeming Thomas in subtle ways. 

Daisy and Ivy are friends - hurray! I was very happy to see that. :)

Over at the Duneagle - just how delicious was all that Scottish scenery?! I absolutely loved the whole visit. I'm glad they showed us a little more about Rose and why she's acting out as she does. I had a feeling she'd be a new character and now that she's coming to live at Downton I wonder what role she will play.

Shrimpie and Susan - how awkward! She was just terrible and I wondered if this was a new development (hormonal issues?) or if she'd always been so difficult. I was glad that Shrimpie enlightened Robert to the real facts - had he modernized (as Matthew is/was pressing for Downton) his estate and fortune would still be his. What a timely wake up call for Robert.

O'Brien is still wicked of course, but I was glad she outfoxed that Wilkins maid. What an amateur, lol!

Anna - so sweet that she learned the Scottish reel for her Scottish husband. :)

Edith - oh .... Edith. What are we to do with you? I have to say I was surprised and intrigued that she decided to give in to Gregson's affections. THIS will be a huge scandal. They can never marry - not until his infirm wife has passed away. So what - will she live with him in sin? See him socially? Sleep with him? It's going to be messy and immoral, I think. But in keeping with her becoming more of a "modern" woman I guess. Really pulling away from what is expected and tolerated at that time.

Ok, these are my initial thoughts ... scattered though they are! I will be very eager to hear what you all think and will jump in again as I can through the day.

Final quick note - the preview of that new series, Mr. Selfridge, looks quite intriguing!! I had not heard of it before but will definitely be checking it out. Something to carry us over till Call the Midwife returns on Easter Sunday.

(ETA - I just checked into it, and it seems both shows begin airing on 3/31 - a double treat!)

Have a great Monday, my friends! Thanks for visiting and sharing your thoughts!

A Downton ❤-Day Quiz

A little fun on this Valentine's afternoon ...

Which Downton Abbey couple are you?

(My answer is in the comments below!)

*❤* 

Masterpiece Monday: Downton Abbey Season 3, Episode 6 (Update!)

Wow, it's hard to believe this is our second to last "Masterpiece Monday!" (Until Call the Midwife returns next month, that is.) So what did you think of last night's show?

As I forewarned, I only made it through half the episode last night before falling asleep on the couch. Riveting though the drama was, being six months pregnant will do that to you! So I plan to finish up tonight, but I welcome you all to start the conversation today ... I'll jump in as soon as I can.

*❤*

Talk soon, and have a great Monday, my friends!

Update ~ I've watched the show and below are my thoughts ...

Wow, that was quite the two hours!

 The neat thing about this show is that its characters are never black and white. Thomas has been such a snake throughout the series, but he's had his human moments too. And to be honest, I felt so bad for him throughout the whole Jimmy fiasco. The way he was lured into thinking Jimmy felt something for him, the shame and embarassment of making such a colossal and dangerous mistake, the way he reacted to Carson's fury - "I'm not foul." That broke my heart. What a lonely life he must lead, outside of Downton. Though he's not close to anyone there (having burned so many bridges) they are like his family. I was very glad Mrs. Hughes turned the tide on his behalf and I think it showed real character and kindness that she, Bates and Robert all came to his defense. Jimmy was led on by O'Brien and easily puffed up - easily, because he is a vain, ambitious and shallow man. And Alfred too was so smoothly manipulated by O'Brien because of his ego. These are not very strong men! And again, though Thomas makes me cringe on a reguar basis, I would not have wanted to see his character go ... he's a terrific actor and I'm curious to see where he goes from here. He will undoubtedly be thrilled to be made under-butler - but I wonder if this ordeal will have taught him anything? That people he's wronged before would help him when he was down? Bates, in particular?

O'Brien was sickening in her manipulations - ugh, I just wanted to smack her face. (Lol, this show moves me to such imagined violence sometimes!) She was hoping to push Alfred up and take Thomas down and had no care for Jimmy's regard. I thought the twist about "her ladyship's soap" was brilliant. I had completely forgotten about that! (But I don't recall her telling Thomas about it? How did he know?)

Briefly on this new character Rose - an interesting diversion if only because we got to see more venues and "fashion" of the time! I'm curious to see what happens next episode when they all join her at O'Deagle castle. I wonder if she will be a recurring character?

As for Edith - I find it amusing that she was so affronted by the idea of a married man flirting with her when wasn't it she who kissed a married farmer back in season two? (When she was "helping out" with the tractor?) Still, I found it curious that they chose a gentleman so similar to Sir Anthony for Edith - not only in looks, but in that he's much older and emotionally (if not physically) tied to a wife who can no longer be with him. Can't Edith meet a man who is truly available? Or better yet, let's get back to that notion where she was working to discover herself as a woman - with her own interests and value - without need of a man. At least for a time. I'd love to see her happily settled eventually (as I'm sure she would too), but I can't see how this relationship with her editor would be any good to her at all. And of course, though he's in a heartbreaking situation, it would still be immoral for him to cheat on his wife ... 

Mary and Matthew are breaking my heart ... I wonder what kind of surgery she had? Repair of cystic ovaries, perhaps? I can't imagine having surgery - let alone seeing a doctor! - without my husband's knowledge and support. Of course, things were so different back then and in the upper class, too. I wonder if his results will show anything "off?" My thinking is no since in the previews she says she's pregnant ...

Very happy about how things are turning out for Branson - I hope he continues to do well at the estate and in his new position. He's really kept his head (and temper) and the family has come to love him (tolerate him) as their own. I was afraid with Sybil's passing his character would be written out but it looks like he'll have an interesting future ahead ...

(And how cute is that Sybbie? Oh my goodness, I swoon everytime that precious baby's face is shown on screen! And also, the dresses worn by the Grantham women at the christening were particularly gorgeous.)

I'm happy with the way things turned out for Ethel - I'd love to see them bring her back at some point down the road if only so we can see how she and little Charlie are doing. And I thought Isobel had the best line last night - "Have you changed your pills?" LOL! 

(And oh, how I love observing Isobel's sitting room - the colors, light and decor are so lovely!)

Well, there's more to say I'm sure but my time has run short this morning ... I'll add more thoughts in the comment box below when and if I have time later today!

Thanks so much for stopping by, everyone - see you here again very soon!

Masterpiece Monday: Downton Abbey Season 3, Episode 5

Good Monday to all ~ and how did you like last night's show?

It was a quieter affair, and naturally so, as the family's grief is so fresh, but I found myself slightly dissatisfied on a couple of points ...

I find this strange to say, but I was hoping for a longer separation (such as it was) between Cora and Robert. I liked that she was expressing her hurt and resentment. And I didn't like it that the Dowager Countess bullied Dr. Clarkson into fudging his findings on Sybil's chances with a C-section. I know Lady Violet only had her family's best interests at heart, but I felt this made the doctor compromise his integrity as well as his medical opinion.* Plus, Robert - who continued with his stubborn, boorish behavior in this episode - got off a little easier than I would have liked. Perhaps that's mean to say because I know the man is also grieving for his daughter - like he said to Cora, his mistake doesn't mean he misses her any less. But still he doesn't seem to be learning any lessons here ... and my palm itches to slap him more and more with each scene.

(*ETA: Perhaps I read that scene wrong - was Dr. Clarkson actually stretching the truth? Or were the odds in fact never in Sybil's favor at all? I wasn't sure what his final admission was on that point.)

The other thing I found slightly dissatisfying was the fast & tidy wrap-up of the Bates situation. Not that I'm not glad to have it done at last, because that storyline really dragged on, but when Anna suddenly appeared with a letter saying all was done and over I was surprised. That was that? Final details, anyone? Ands so now Mr. Bates can return to Downton, but oooh ... what will that mean for Thomas? The snake-like valet seems poised to receive a whole bunch of rejection next week ...

And not to rush his grieving, but I'm itching for Branson to find what he's meant to do - I feel if there could be a position somewhere at Downton (a farmer like his grandfather perhaps?) he could be his own man and yet still keep his daughter close to his late wife's family. He'll need all the help he can get after all. Can he work with Matthew in some way to bring Downton back up to snuff? Branson's abrasiveness has turned me off now and again throughout the seasons, but I am very glad that he is not taking any guff re his daughter. She will be named as he wishes and baptised as a Catholic, as it should be. She's HIS daughter for goodness sakes! That scene around the dinner table when everyone ganged up on Robert in defense of Catholicism was just great - and I was SO proud of Mary for sticking up for Branson here and supporting Sybil's last wishes, too ...

And that said, I softened a little towards Mary in this episode ... but oh boy, if that bedroom scene between her and Matthew wasn't foreshadowing I don't know what was! (No spoilers please - I am aware of some cast changes for next year but know nothing more than that.)

LOVED the scenes with Daisy ... I would love to see her take on that farm from William's father. I can see her happy there, making her jars of jams and baked goods. Wouldn't that be nice for her? And I'm glad to see the tide turning a little with regards to the Alfred/Ivy/Daisy/Jimmy quadrangle. Daisy seems to be sorting things out but, Alfred - get a clue! Ivy - wake up! Jimmy - stop listening to O'Brien! Lol.

And O'Brien is pushing her agenda along, now teasing Thomas with hints that Jimmy is interested too. Cringe. What is she hoping to see happen? Jimmy will be forced to act on his disgust and/or Thomas will do something untoward and the whole deal will be exposed to Carson who will then - as O'Brien hopes - make Alfred first footman?

And oh Carson ... you love your family that's for sure, but lighten up a little would you? His words to Mrs. Hughes were especially harsh - though I loved that she took them in stride with a shrug and a slight eye roll. (Mrs. Hughes continues to be my favorite character in the series - a voice of sense and compassion in every situation.)

Oh, and hooray for Ethel! I was very happy to see her being proactive for once - seeking help from Mrs. Patmore and delivering those flowers to Downton when she knows she is hardly welcome. Now she just needs to get her son back ... maybe someday?

Previews for next week ... 

It appears Edith takes the newspaper job despite her father's displeasure, and Matthew gets rather heated in his confrontation with Robert. Bates returns home to a hearty welcome ... and it appears, his old job. There's a jolly game of cricket on the lawn ... and just who is this dancing, giggling Rose?

Only a few weeks more, right? I believe the last episode airs on February 17th? And while I'm anxious to see how things wrap up, I'm sad that things will be coming to an end. What a lovely show this is ...

So give me your thoughts, my friends - how did you find last night's episode? What are you thoughts on where things might be going?

And as always, have yourselves a good Monday ... I'll see you here again sometime soon!

*❤*

Masterpiece Monday: Downton Abbey Season 3, Episode 4

Tuesday update: I have now watched the episode and my "rantish" thoughts are in the comments box below. I am still in shock ... and my nose is still stuffed up!

Good Monday morning, my friends ...

Now, I have not yet had a chance to watch last night's show and from the buzz around the internet this morning, it seems to have been quite an emotional episode. I don't want to watch it on my own (like I did last week!), so Bill and I will be catching up tonight ...

In the meantime, please feel free to leave your thoughts on last night's episode in the comments below and I will catch up with you all tomorrow morning. :)

(And fyi, a "survey post" will be up in a bit ...)

Blessings to you all on this brisk winter's day!

*❤*

Organizing the Nest Survey, Part 8 ~ Arts, Crafts & Hobbies

Happy Monday, everyone!

Today's survey focuses on the time, space and materials involved in arts, crafts and hobbies. Speaking in FlyLady terms, this is another "hotspot" for me. I love collecting (Bill might say amassing) craft supplies of all kinds, but I'm not always careful with how I store them ...

And finding time to fit crafting into an already pretty full schedule is no easy task either. When the boys were little we crafted regularly as part of our homeschooing week, but now that they're older it's not as big a part of our curriculum. I love to dabble in crafts and Earlybird really loves art projects - the messier the better! - and I suspect with the new baby coming, I'll l be back on the "kiddie craft wagon" before long. :) So I'm itching to get my supplies in order and figure out an easy (easier?) way to fit crafting - creative expression - into our week.

So, my questions for you all today are as follows ...

1. What kinds of arts/crafts/hobbies are part of your life?

2. Where and how do you store crafting supplies?

3. Time-wise, how do you fit crafting into your life? (On your own or with kids?)

***

Now if you'd like to revisit previous survey comments (to read through or add your own), please click on the following links:

1. to-do lists (daily and someday)

2. family food

3. calendars

4. file folders and paper management

5. family finances

6. homeschooling

7. seasonal planning

(Remember - each time you comment your name is entered in the contest!)

***

Thanks so much for taking the time to participate in my survey! I'll have a few more posts this week and then I'll announce the TWO winners on Friday. :)

Have a great Monday my friends ... see you here again sometime soon!

*❤*

p.s. That crockpot cake I made yesterday came out great! Even after Earlybird unplugged the crockpot for an undetermined length of time ... it recovered beautifully! :)

Masterpiece Monday: Downton Abbey Season 3, Episode 3

Good Monday morning, my friends!

Now, I must confess, I did a rather shameful thing ... I watched the latest episode of Downton without my husband! While Bill slept on early this morning (after making me coffee, and I do mean very early this morning, EB had us up at 4:00!) I found the episode online. Our plan was to catch up tonight because thanks - or really, no thanks - to the Pats game last night we skipped Downton. But when I realized I could watch it this morning on my laptop, I just could not resist! (Of course I will certainly watch it again happily tonight.)

It's the first time I've watched an episode on my laptop, rather than the tv, and I was quite surprised to find the small screen rather delightful! If only because the details of each scene were so vivid and close! I wanted to freeze the frames to closely inspect Isobel's front foyer, Mary's drawing room, Matthew's breakfast setting and even Daisy's pantry. :)

But enough of my confessions, let's get on with the conversation!

Lady Edith

Hooray for Edith! I love that she's found something to do! I think there will be very ineteresting opportunities ahead if she decides (and is not talked out of) this journalistic path. I love that Grandmama told her to stop whining! And I hated that Papa belittled her endeavor (and her voice). I think it will be terrific for her to find success in an area that no other Grantham - particularly her sisters - has before.

Mr. and Mrs. Bates

A happy resolution to a sad and frustrating situation. Their communication was the one thing they had getting them through this awful ordeal. To take that away from them - it was injuring them both so badly. I am so eager for this storyline to move forward - I really am anxious to see the mystery of Vera Bates unraveled. Of course, if and when Bates is freed, where will he go? Will he return to Downton? Will there be a place for him? But I suppose that's getting ahead of ourselves ... 

Mr. And Mrs. Branson

Well this is a rather ugly situation, isn't it? I really fear the outcome of this mess. Branson is so steadfast in his commitment to Ireland, I worry it will outweigh his responsibility to his wife and child. Sybil has had a taste of the danger involved in Branson's life and her instincts are to protect their child above all. How can we blame her for that? I fear Tom might, though. But what on earth does he expect her to do? Would he really go back to Ireland knowing he'd be arrested on the spot? What would that mean for his family? Nevermind what it would mean for the Granthams, I mean, how would Sybil cope with that loss? I'm nervous to see how things unfold between this couple.

Mr. And Mrs. Crawley

Tensions continue to simmer between Mary and Matthew. What was that brief conversation in the new drawing room (aka future nursery) hinting at? Mary had been to the doctor about hay fever? Hmmm ... I'm not buying that. And the way she shrugged off the (sweet, romantic) nursery comment Matthew made? Something tells me they are not on the same page when it comes to babies. (ETA - or maybe something's up with her cycles? Perhaps she'll have trouble conceiving?)

And then we have Matthew's inspection - and critique - of Downton's management. He's a businessman after all, and where he sees disorder he wants to put things right. But as Lady Violet wisely warns, this will put a lot of noses out of joint. (Mary's is already a bit bent, and Robert wanted to hear none of that talk.) Matthew as a character can be confusing I think, and I also think he's not fully invested in his role in the family. He has Mary as he wished, but I'm not sure he wanted all that came with her. On the one hand Matthew insists (as he did to Carson) that he's not to be involved in the running of Downton - he's just an investor - but on the other hand he's clearly going to advocate (push for?) change. Even if Robert seems loathe to hear it ...

Lord Grantham

Speaking of Robert, in addition to his stubborn addiction to "the old ways," what was up with that anti-Catholic sentiment? That seemed out of left field, and I wonder if it's some foreshadowing perhaps. He's really not my favorite character these days!

Ethel

Another sad storyline! My heart goes out to this character and the life she's found herself trapped in. The scene when she said goodbye to her tiny son was a very tough scene to watch - especially for someone pregnant with her fourth son! I found myself torn between her choices. If I thought she had no hope of or help for a better life, I could see her sending her son to live with his grandparents - but I wish she would have accepted the money and kept her son. As did Mrs. Crawley whose heart is in the right place, but perhaps is still a bit fuzzy on the realities of the poor. As Ethel pointed out, Mrs. Crawley's son went to the top schools - in other words, who was she to press such advice? Of course, Ethel and Isobel are and were in completely different walks of life and so their choices would be limited by class in one way or another. The scenes from next week suggest Ethel goes to work for Mrs. Crawley - I wonder how that will work out?

The New Footman

Not sure what to make of him yet! He's good looking yes, and amiable, but is he a bit full of himself perhaps? I guess we'll have to watch and see. Thomas's smarmy attentions made me cringe - I really hope nothing comes of that! Not so much because Thomas is gay but more because of how slimy he is. You can see he's taken quite a shine to this new footman (for professional and personal reasons) and I really don't want to see him play that up. But from the previews it looks like Jimmy  - not James ;) - is put off by Thomas and his attentions, and he confides so in O'Brien ... who could do so much with that kind of information.

The New Kitchen Maid

Poor Daisy! The girl just cannot catch a break! I love her relationship with William's father - he's so kind and paternal. And I just wanted to slap Alfred because he is so blind to the situation! And then he's flirting with the new maid right in front of Daisy who, he should have realized, has been opening up to him! That's probably a lot to ask of a young man at that time though, lol! The new maid - Ivy? - seems nice so far. I wonder how big a character she'll be?

***

Ok, well, I've probably forgotten to mention a bunch of important points, but I want to get this post up as soon as I can so I'll stop here. I'm eager to hear your thoughts my friends, so please leave a comment below if you have the time! And now to wake Bill and confess that I've watched our beloved Downton without him ... wish me luck! ;)

And have a great day!

*❤*

P.S. A quite humorous and thoughtful recap is here - the paragraph about the prison had me in stitches (and you'll know which line I mean). :)

Masterpiece Monday: Downton Abbey Season 3, Episode 2

Good Tuesday morning, my friends!

Sorry about the delay ... all caught up now, and WOW what a show! A lot of developments in episode two, both surprising and not so surprising ...

I mean, we all knew Matthew would save Downton Abbey. For goodness sakes, Highclere Castle (the real-life abbey where the show is filmed) is practically a star in its own right. Not that the downsized "Downton Place" wasn't charming. Like Branson said (or mumbled beneath his breath) most folks would call it a "fairy tale castle." And while I'm sure the family would have adjusted - clearly some better than others - it was the servants I was most worried about. After all, they'd have to pare down their staff and I wondered just who would make the cut. I also worried for Anna because she'd be that much farther away from her Mr. Bates. 

And speaking of Mr. Bates ... good grief I'm a wreck over his ordeal! First off, he's made enemies - just his cellmate? or are there others? - but some quick thinking on his part (and a helpful tip) saved his skin. (What was placed beneath his mattress, anyway? I couldn't tell in that scene.) And from the previews next week it looks like someone might be messing with the mail and interrupting his and Anna's correspondence. But more importantly, I worry about the trouble he might find himself in - more than he has already. He's got quite a short fuse and there's a lot of pressure upon him. Anna's visit to Mrs. Bartlett was mostly unhelpful, as that lady seems convinced Mr. Bates did indeed kill Vera. And she intimated he had been violent before and that Vera had been quite afraid of her husband. I was hoping Mrs. Bartlett might have been in on it (Vera's plan that is) but it seems she was fooled. I hope we all haven't been fooled into being so sure Vera did in fact commit suicide. I don't want to think Mr. Bates is lying about what happened ... and I don't think he would. Not to Anna, anyway. Though he does seem pretty adament she move on with her life. But I think that's more about his fear/belief he will ultimately live out his life in prison. It's a sad, sad situation all around.

And another sad situation ... poor Edith!

Now, I've made no secret of my dislike of Edith's character (distaste is maybe a better word) but I felt SO badly for her last night. And I wanted to SMACK Sir Anthony right in the face! What a spineless, stupid man. I'm not faulting him for having fears about their marriage, but for goodness sakes - to end it all AT THE ALTAR? Nothing could be so cruel. It was such a horrible shock for Edith, but to be honest, I was not all that surprised. (And not just because I got spoiled on the internet yesterday!) Bill even said, in those moments when Edith was arriving and Sir Anthony was waiting at the altar - looking rather ill I might add - that this thing was just not going to happen. You could read it in the way the scene unfolded ... something was clearly going to go amiss ...

Well, good riddance, Sir Anthony, I say. Though I have to wonder if we'll see him again? I'd assume he'd make himself pretty scarce, socially speaking, from here on out. As for Edith's future, I do hope she finds happiness eventually. So much of her identity and esteem is wrapped up in how she compares herself to her sisters. I was glad to see her pull herself out of bed to get on with the day, even if she seemed rather resigned to her role as a "spinster." She does need to be doing something useful, I think. Look how wonderfully she rose to the challenge when Downton was turned into a soldier's rehab. Perhaps Edith will be the example of how women were establishing independence at that time? Not that I wouldn't like to see her happily paired off eventually. (Maybe that "Patrick" character will come back at some point?)

And speaking of independent women, Daisy is cracking me up. I love that she's questioning herself and her situation constantly. First her role in the household (when she went on strike, lol) and now how to speak out a little more. I think she's a bit sweet on Alfred, too - who seems like a nice enough guy if not maybe a little clueless.

The tension - to put it mildly - between Thomas and O'Brien will be very interesting to watch. I can't wait to see how/if she gets back at him! Remember these two snakes in the first season? They were thick as thieves. Now they're mortal enemies with competing interests ... who will strike next, I wonder?

And Isobel Crawley, in light of our recent quiz, has become all the more interesting to me. :) She can be pushy, yes - but I admire her forward thinking and sensible attitude. I like that she has a sense of respect and responsiblity for those "beneath her." What she is doing for those troubled women is wonderful. But what on earth is going on with that former Downton maid? She keeps saying she's not seeking help for herself, but rather, someone else? WHO? Another child? (Didn't her first child get taken on by the deceased father's family? Maybe I'm forgetting my facts ...) I can't wait to see what lies behind that door!

Oh, and Mrs. Hughes ... YAY for Mrs. Hughes! I was almost completely convinced she was going to have cancer. The show can throw its punches, after all. But thank goodness she is all right. I thought Mr. Carson was so cute in his "secretive" concern. Do any of you think there might be -  or could be  - more than friendship between them?

A few final thoughts ...

I thought the clothing was especially beautiful and interesting in episode two. I'd love to have a closer look at those hats and frocks - and thankfully, I have just the book to do just that!

Cora drives me mad sometimes - she's so pouty! But then she's really very gentle and kind-hearted - how she comforted Mrs. Hughes was just lovely. And I like that she kept such a level head about the financial crisis and potential move - yet she still respected the deep sorrow her husband felt over losing his home. She immediately supported her husband with soothing words and a confidence that he perhaps did not deserve. He did make a mess of things, after all, and she could have berated him for it. But that's not the kind of wife she is ... her priority is to support him and his needs.

(Yet it's times like these I still find myself so very mad at Lord Grantham for his discretion with that maid earlier in the series. I really have not felt the same about him since.)

Ok, last thought - the previews for next week. My gosh, the previews! What on earth is going on with Branson and Sybil?! As best Bill and I could tell, it seems Branson must escape Ireland (maybe some fallout from his political involvements) but he leaves Sybil behind. But where is she when she makes that phone call? And was his flight a mutual agreement, or did he - heaven forbid - run off on her? I can't imagine he'd go to Downton Abbey if he did. He had made such strides with the family, too ... I can't think this foible will earn him any points.

***

Well golly, I've exhausted myself, lol! There was so much in last night's episode, but I think I've touched upon all my points. :) I'm eager to hear what you all thought of the show and the most recent developments! If you have the time, please leave a comment below ...

And have yourself a healthy and happy Tuesday! 

*❤*

Here's a bit of fun ...

Quiz: Which Downton Abbey job is right for you?

(My results are in the comments!)

:)

Masterpiece Monday ~ Downton Abbey Season 3 Premiere!

Good Monday morning, my friends!

Well, at long last another season of Downton is upon us ... so what did you think?!

I thought it was a fantastic premiere! There was the familiarity we longed for with enough "newness" to make things quite exciting. And wasn't it just wonderful to be back in the world of "Downton" again? Even the very opening strains of music and those first images of the house itself and its servants moving about inside had me grinning from ear to ear.

:)

Ok, so here are a few brief thoughts because I'm getting a slower start than I'd like this morning. *yawn* We didn't realize it was a two-hour showing last night! Eleven is waaay after my bedtime these days!

Of course I'm glad we stayed up, because every minute was a delight ...

First of all, wasn't the wedding beautiful? Well, it looked beautiful anyway - I would have liked to have seen more of the ceremony itself. (Those tender "I do" moments, you know?) I thought Mary looked lovely ~ I was not crazy about the bodice of the dress, though I know it was perfect for that time. I particularly loved her hair and the tiara.

Speaking of Lady Mary, I thought she seemed to be reverting a bit to the "Mary" she was in the beginning of season one ... a bit cooler, and haughtier perhaps. I really hope that's not a trend ...

And though I can understand Matthew's conflict over the Swire inheritance, I think he's wrong about what he calls his "infidelity" to Lavinia. He tried very hard to do right by her, but as the saying goes, "the heart wants what it wants." The flu killed Lavinia, not a broken heart ... but Matthew can't get past his guilt (compounded by the fact he could never love Lavinia enough). Of course her passing not long after he kissed Mary probably sealed the guilt for him. I think he had just come to terms with the fact he was not over Mary when the flu claimed his betrothed. I have a feeling that the money will continue to drive a wedge between the newly married couple.

I can't imagine the family will actually lose Downton Abbey, but the previews for next week hint at a new "Downton Place?" I wonder just how much will be shaken up over the course of the season?

I was very glad to see Branson soften a bit by the end of the show and I absolutely love that he and Matthew have formed a friendship. And I am pretty certain I remember Sybil is pregnant but other than her touching her belly a few times there was no mention.

And Edith looks poised to finally secure some happiness for herself. I am glad that she seems authentic in her love for Sir Anthony. She has been somewhat unlikeable since the beginning of the series (to me anyway) but I think she has softened quite a bit.

Now, looking "downstairs" we have all kinds of things going on ...

Poor Mrs. Hughes ... I feel so sorry for what she's going through. I'm so glad she has Mrs. Patmore as a support. (I'm remembering when Mrs. P had to go through the blindness ordeal.) Of course I'm hoping her prognosis will be good since from the previews it looks as though she does in fact have cancer. And although I would rather she not be ill, I do think the look at how the disease was treated back then - diagnosed, understood, etc. - will be interesting to watch.

Thomas is a pill as usual - no softening there at all! And I like O'Brien's nephew, Alfred - he reminds me a little of the late William. Not sure how I feel about the American maid - she seems kind of coarse and vain. (A bit of a stereotype, perhaps?) She won't be around much longer though, and I am curious to see how/if a relationship develops between Alfred and Daisy who couldn't seem to keep her eyes off of him.

And Anna - God bless her - she's so loyal to her Mr. Bates and earnest in her search for the truth. I hope she is successful soon - I think the key lies with that Mrs. Barrett who lived so close to Vera and with whom the former Mrs. Bates also shared correspondence. As for Mr. Bates, I'm very leery of his new cellmate! I see trouble coming from him, mark my words.

Ok, back to the Granthams - and extended family. :) I thought Cora's mother was a hoot, if a bit over the top. Maybe it's the American in me, but I thought they made her a little more crass than was necessary, lol. She certainly saved the day with that "indoor picnic" idea, though! Too bad she won't be staying around longer - her "interchanges" with Lady Violet were priceless!

And as usual, Lady Violet had all my favorite lines. "She's like a homing pigeon. Always going for the underbelly." LOL! Dame Maggie Smith is a national treasure, that's for sure. Just before we tuned into Once Upon a Time at 8 p.m., we were watching Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part Two. The scenes where Professor McGonigle takes charge of Hogwarts and instructs the castle to defend itself (and them all) just gives me goosebumps! And Maggie Smith is just such an amazing actress that I forget entirely that this is the same person who portrays Lady Violet!

So I'm curious to see what plot lines develop and themes unfold as the season progresses. I'm guessing the fate of the family fortune will be a big deal, as will be the fate of Mr. Bates. Then of course there's Matthew and Mary's marriage and Mrs. Hughes' health. And generally speaking, I think the "traditon vs. modernizing" argument will come into play more and more ... 

I love most of the tradition surrounding Downton Abbey but I do dislike the strict and often demeaning class system. It's easy to see why the wealthy would want to hold on to the old ways while the middle and lower classes would be all for equalizing. Those old ways, even when they're not all that fair, can be a comfort. Look at how Carson holds on to tradition just as steadfastly as Lord Grantham.

*** 

Well my friends, that's all I have time for right now. I'm sorry I didn't much touch upon Once Upon a Time ... I'm a little Downton-obsessed this morning! We enjoyed OUaT too - and just briefly, I was glad that Archie was alive and actually felt bad for Regina (in the present, not the past). OUaT certainly has a lot of storylines going on ... it will be neat to see how they all play out over the rest of the season.

Have a great Monday, everyone ... thanks for stopping by and I will see you here again very soon!

*❤*

Downton Abbey Fans Take Note:

I am ridiculously excited about this!

U.S. Downton Abbey Fans to Get Their Own Julian Fellowes Series

How intriguing! I wonder when it will start filming?

:)

Masterpiece Monday: Call the Midwife (ep. 3)

Well, this show certainly knows how to pull at the heartstrings, doesn't it?

>>> SPOILERS BELOW <<<

Episode three brought us two very poignant plotlines ...

First we have Jenny's visits with Mr. Collett, a lonely widower living in a filthy tenement, surrounded by bittersweet memories. This man was such a sweetheart - obviously lonely, but quite happy with his lot. He just took to Jenny's attention like a bee to honey, and a tentative friendship developed. I just loved how he called her his "maiden." :) He reminded me of a few older male relatives I've known ... gentle and kind, proud and yet humble at the same time. The end of that storyline broke my heart, but I was so glad he knew such kindness at the end of his life.

Next we have Ted and Winnie, an older couple expecting a baby ... he's absolutely thrilled, she's obviously not. We begin to suspect there's more to her hesitance than her age ... and once she's in labor she admits she's afraid the baby will be black. (Making it clear she cheated on her husband.) Uch, what an awful situation ... we just know how this is going to play out ... only we don't. Because yes - when her baby is born, he's clearly not Ted's son, but who would have suspected Ted's amazing reaction? What a sweet and forgiving man. Given the nature of the show I guess I'm not surprised Winnie's gentle husband took this shock in stride, dismissed her indiscretion, and took that beautiful baby under his wing.

{Side note: I have to chuckle at how many "older" women are having babies in this show. Because I sit here, pregnant myself at the "ripe old age" of 43, and see these women who, I just assume, must be older than I am, lol ... only, the last two ladies were both revealed to be younger than me! Forty-one last night and 42 the night before (the mother of the bride who had the breech baby)! I just look over at Bill and say, "But they look older than me, right?" Well, you can imagine how delicately he answers that question.}

Hormones are a wonderful thing, are they not? ;)

So then we had the introduction of Jimmy, Jenny's old childhood friend, who shows up needing a place to stay. He's quite witty and a bit of a flirt, but we (and she) can't be sure of his feelings - though everyone around them sees them clearly. I like Jimmy a lot - he's sweet and, I think/hope, sincere - but I keep going back to that first episode when Jenny confessed that she loved someone once, but she couldn't have him ... or something like that. I'd have to go back for the actual lines. I don't think she meant Jimmy ... when he appeared she seemed fairly unruffled. Pleased to see him, but not overwhelmed. Of course I still can't help but wonder if the unrequited/unresolved love she mentioned will show up again in her life ... maybe just as she and Jimmy get serious?

Ah, but I'm getting ahead of myself ...

Anyhoo ... last of all we had a little progress between Chummy and her attentive policeman ... how I laughed when Sister, watching their awkward interaction, said she remembers why she's so glad she took her vows, lol! I cannot wait to see how Chummy's "pictures date" goes next time! And the brief preview of episode 4 promises a quite lively installment, filled with dancing and drama ...

I am just loving this show!

:)

Now, did anyone catch the Downton Abbey season 3 preview at the end of the show? It looked so good! All those familiar faces and new developments ... even just hearing that soft lilting score made my heart happy! January 6th is getting closer, my friends! A question for my readers who live overseas: without revealing any spoilers, can you tell us how you're liking the new season so far?

Well my friends, I am gong to wrap this up now and get on with my day. I hope you all have a nice Monday ... thanks so much for stopping by!

See you all again very soon ...

❤

Tuesday Tidbits

Ralph Lauren to Sponsor PBS 'Masterpiece,' Create 'Downton Abbey' Ads

Just look at all that vintage clothing - so gorgeous!

The funny thing is, I clipped this magazine ad for my journal last week ... I guess I was unknowingly drawn to that posh Downton spirit!

From the article linked above:

"Ralph Lauren’s sponsorship messages will begin Sept. 30 on PBS."

I will definitely be looking for them!

***

So I'm getting a rather slow, lazy start here ... there just doesn't seem to be enough coffee in my pot to wake me up. Well, we had a late, but wonderful, night out last night, at Bill's company's service recognition dinner. (He celebrates 15 years this year!)

A picture for posterity, if I may ...

And I so wished I had my camera with me, because the party ambiance was just breathtaking, but Bill obliged me with a quick shot off his phone. :)

The flowers were absolutely gorgeous! Deeply hued dahlias, set against amber- and rose- colored tablecloths and lots of cozy, flickering candles. Amazing food and delicious wine ... it was such a treat to have a night out like this. Thanks to my mum for babysitting our boys!

***

And finally, but certainly most importantly, we're saying a prayer today for all those who lost their lives on 9/11, especially Chris, a friend and co-worker of Bill's. Prayers too for all those who love and miss them ...

***

Enjoy the rest of your Tuesday, my friends. I'll speak with you again very soon!

❤

A Few Late Day Links

Two about budgeting ...

How I Saved My Family $600 a Month on Groceries (Today)

4 Things I Do to Keep Our Grocery Budget at $200/mo. for a Family of Four (Parents)

Two about our beloved DA ...

Downton Abbey Season 3 Trailer (iTv1)

Downton Abbey Star Dan Stevens Off to Broadway - But Will He Return? (Huffington Post)

And one shameless (sheepish) plug ...

Thursday, September 6th 2012 (Daily Bits of Domestic Bliss - my housekeeping blog)

***

Have a great night, my friends!

❤

Downton Abbey News :)

My friend Kristen shared this link with me: 

"Downton Abbey Cast Film Christmas Special at Scottish Castle"

There are just so many nice words in that title. And it does my heart such good to know the world of Downton is "living and breathing" somewhere at this very moment. Season three sure is a ways away ... but we can be patient, right?

*sigh*

Our January will be all the brighter for it.

*❤*

Hope you're all having  a nice day!

Sunday ☼ Snippets

Just jotting down a few thoughts from my day ...

☼

There's a PBS preview here ...with a bit more information on Downton Abbey AS WELL AS a new Martha Stewart Cooking show! As many of you know, the MARTHA show was cancelled this year, and though I must admit I was an infrequent viewer, I will miss that big pretty studio she had! Actually, I still like her original show best - the one set at Turkey Hill, where she just showed you stuff but didn't try to "banter" with celebrity guests. Still, it's nice to know she'll continue to be a presence on TV! (And here's another article about the new Martha show from way back in April. Clearly I've been out of the loop!)

☼

This was a beautiful song sung at Mass this morning. I'm sure I've heard it before, but it really struck me today ...

I just love it. ❤

☼

I have more skls/bnls chicken breasts in the crockpot today - which means more shredded chicken for salad, pizzas, wraps, etc. I'll keep my portion plain, since I'm pretty sure it was Bill's bbq sauce - or rather, the chipolte pepper in Bill's bbq sauce - that set off my crazy reaction.

(Note to self: call an allergist first thing tomorrow.)

☼ 

And Crackerjack took this picture of Archie ...

He's holding his own - still sneezing now and again, but also still acting completely normal otherwise (eating/drinking/playing, etc.). Hates the meds of course, but what can you do?

But I love how we all flock to the learning room, whether we're learning or not.

But really, when are we not?

☼

The older boys are at a "big boy" birthday party this afternoon, so EB and I made crafts and had "Sunday Sundaes" at home. The boy just loves to paint, and he'll paint whatever I give him ... though funnily enough, he absolutely refused to paint rocks today, lol ...

And I had planned to do this frame craft mid-week, for the Feast of St. James, but we made them up today since the mood was just right. :)

EB did the painting, I did the pictures. :)

And in another window ...

I love putting starfish and sand dollars in the windows at this time of year. I'm not sure if this is strictly a New England thing, or more of a coastal thing, but I see them here and there and they always make me smile ... so I hope our "seaworthy" windows make passersby smile, too. :)

☼

Going a bit further with the shell theme - since shells are a symbol of St. James - I'm planning to make lemon madeleines and scallops provençal this week, and we may make this adorable seashell koala craft. Of course, I've been hunting high and low for my madeleine pan without any luck ... but I did find the minifig cake pan! Just in time for CJ's birthday next month! (You're not going to believe this, but he'll be 13!)

☼

Lately, we've been enjoying the goldfinches enjoying our lavender bed ...

I had kind of been kicking myself (as I do every year) for not doing much with our large patch of lavender... but seeing how dearly the birds love it, I feel somewhat less guilty.

☼

Also, I wrote out a rather lengthy post on how I get ready for a new school year, since I've had a few requests for a post of that nature. Alas, I was on Benadryl at the time, so it needs a little polishing before it posts, lol.

(It should be up sometime tomorrow!)

☼

Well, I'm going to sign off now, my friends - I expect my older boys and Bill home any minute, and I'm sure they'll be eager for supper. I hope you all had a nice weekend ... and I wish you a lovely Sunday night. 

I'll see you here again very soon ...

❤

Downton Abbey News!

My friend Kristen shared a link to an article on DA, and I wanted to pass it on!

'Downton Abbey' sneak peek: Matthew, Mary quarrel

The new season officially airs here in the states next January - which seems so far away, but at least we'll have something to help beat those post-holiday blues! The UK of course, gets to view season three in September ... and with all the attention DA gets, I bet it will be tough to dodge spoilers this fall!

Also, I'm just thrilled that Downton received so many Emmy nomimations, as did our beloved Sherlock. From what I understand, the noms are a record for Masterpiece Theater ~ so well done!

❤

Have a lovely Sunday, my friends ...